by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 11:50 AM ET, Mon July 21, 2025
With Air Canada about to launch flights from Montreal to Guatemala City in October 2025, Visit Guatemala is touting one of Central America’s most diverse destinations.
Land of Fire and Pizza
Home to 37 volcanoes, Guatemala offers some of the most dramatic trekking in the region.
The Acatenango trek is a bucket-list climb for serious hikers, including a challenging 1,570-metre ascent that leads to a summit at nearly 4,000 metres. Climbers can view eruptions from neighbouring Fuego Volcano — a night-time spectacle of smoke, lava and fire that's frequently described as unforgettable.
For a gentler, but equally unique, volcanic experience, Pacaya Volcano offers a hike through active terrain and the chance to try “Pizza Pacaya” — pizza cooked using the volcano’s natural heat in steam vents and lava-warmed ovens.
Adventures Above and Around Lake Atitlán
Considered one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Atitlán is a volcanic crater lake surrounded by steep hills and three looming volcanoes.
According to Visit Guatemala, travellers can kayak or paddleboard across its surface, exploring coves and lakeside villages.
The sunrise hike up Indian Nose is particularly popular, providing views of volcanoes blanketed in morning mist.
Tikal: Ruins in the Heart of the Jungle
Deep in the northern Petén jungle lies Tikal.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its temples and grand plazas offer a look into a civilization that thrived over a thousand years ago.
The site is also a haven for wildlife — including howler monkeys, toucans, and even jaguars.
Rainforests, Resplendent Quetzals & Turtle Hatchlings
Guatemala’s natural diversity spans from coastal mangroves to high-altitude cloud forests.
In the Maya Biosphere Reserve, travellers might see tapirs or hear the call of scarlet macaws. Birdwatchers will be drawn to Biotopo del Quetzal, home to Guatemala’s national bird — the Resplendent Quetzal.
Between December and April, visitors can embark on whale-watching excursions or witness the release of baby sea turtles into the ocean in beach towns like Monterrico.
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